The third shot drop carries a lot of weight in the game of pickleball. It’s the key to neutralizing the returning team’s advantage and advancing towards the NVZ.
If you're an avid player, chances are that you know how to execute a 3rd shot drop. Her we explain the variations of drops and the logic behind the shot selection and placement.
Flat Drop
This is the basic drop that focuses on two variables, power and height. Fine-tune how hard you push through the ball and the angle of your paddle face to get consistent with the flat drop.
Topspin Drop
The topspin drop adds the risk of making a mistake but also adds the reward of challenging your opponent.
To execute: Square up the face of your paddle and brush up the backside of the ball. Top players like to use the topspin drop when aiming down the line.
Underspin Drop aka Slice Drop
For the underspin drop, the paddle face opens up to a roughly 45-degree angle. Because the paddle face is open, the swing can follow a level path instead of swinging up. As opposed to the topspin drop, strong players prefer to use underspin when going cross-court.
Where to hit your third?
Below is a hierarchy for where to hit your thirds.
1. Confidence trumps strategy. If you have a favorite location to hit your drops, then hit it there. Confidence and consistency are keys to a good third shot.
2. Choose your spot. When confident hitting to any location, target the player that is less of a threat on the fourth. Avoid erne threats and forehands that can reach into the kitchen if possible.
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